Of the two most recent Andre Norton novels, The X Factor and Quest Crosstime, The X Factor begins with the most promise; but it fails to fulfill that promise….
While this novel might have held "a mirror up to nature," it avoids a most significant issue for the adolescent: how is a man to come to terms with his physical makeup in his own culture? Moreover, Norton relies on the cliche that the physically handicapped possess some special affinity for, and sensitivity to, the natural world. Here this cliche is dressed out as "thought projection." Neither the science, which borders on mysticism, nor the slow-moving action will make this novel appeal to younger readers.
This is a free excerpt of 113 words. There are 529 words (approx.
2 pages at 300 words per page) in the full critical essay.
Read the rest of this Criticism with our Norton, Andre 1912–: Critical Essay by Alan Madsen Access Pass.
